Telephone system.



No. 799,010. PATENTED SEPT. 5, 1905. 0. M. LEICH.

TELEPHONE SYSTEM.

APPLICATION FILED PBB.9,1900.

zsHEn'rS-SHEBT l.

PATBNTBD SEPT. 5 1905.

0. M. LEICH.

TELEPHONE SYSTEM.

APPLIoATIoN rILED P2B. 9, 1900.

2 SHEETS-SHEET 2.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.

OSCAR M. LEICH, OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, ASSIGNOR, BY MESNE ASSIGN- MENTS, OF ONE-THIRD TO SAID LEICH, ONE-THIRD TO J. G. IHMSEN, AND ONE-THIRD TO MAX IV. ZABEL, OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.

TELEPHONE SYSTEM.

No. 799,010. Specification of Letters Patent. Patented Sept. 5, 1905.

Application filed February 9, 1900. Serial No. 4,614.

To fdl nfmlb Hwy UOTLOWW/f tion hereinafter described there are two or- Be it known that I, OSCAR M. LEICH, a citidinary polarized bells, one of which is con- 55 Zen of the United States, residing at Chicago, nected between one conductor of the line and in the county of Cook and State of Illinois, earth and the other of which is connected behave invented a certain new and useful Imtween the remaining conductor and earth, provenient in Telephone Systems, of which and each ground connection includes an imthe following is a full, clear, concise, and expedance element of such character that either 60 act description, reference being had to the bell will ring when a capacity chargeis passed accompanying drawings, forming a part of over the circuit. There are also in this ar- Io this specilication. rangement two similar bells connected,respec This invention relates to signaling systems tively, between opposite sides of the line and in general, but more particularly to electric earth, and in each of these last-mentioned 65 signaling apparatus 'for use in telephone-exground connections there is a suitable imchange systems, and especially to telephonepedance element, the impedance or reactive exchange systems of that type in which a means in this case, however, being so adplurality ofsubscribers stations are connected justed or employed relatively to their allotted with a single line, such systems being combells thatthelatter will not respond when a ca- 70 monly known as party-line systems. Itis pacity charge is passedover the circuit. Thus evident in a telephone system of this parthe first two-mentioned bells respond readily 2o ticular character that it is of advantage and to a capacity charge---that is to say, an alterthat it is a feature which adds considerably to nating current which has been passed through the etliciency and desirability of the system a condenser and which may have thus be- 75 to have the apparatus so arranged that the come what is commonly known as leadoperator at the central station may ring the ing-current-while the last two mentioned bell of any subscribers station on aline withbells, owing to the difference in the adjustout ringing any of the other bells connected ment or relative arrangement of the reacwith the same line, thus avoiding the necestive means, do not respond tosuch capacity 8O sity of ringing all the bells each time it is charges, but do respond to ordinary alternatdesired to call up any particular subscriber ing currents. In this way with this arrangeon the line, and thereby dispensing' with the ment one side of the line is connected with necessity of employing' a ditl'erent number of two bells` one responsive to capacity charges, rings for the ditl'erent subscribers. In the the other non-responsive to such charges, 85 improved signaling system and with the and the same condition exists with respect to hereinafter-described arrangement of circuits the other side of the line; and in the particuand devices it is possible for the operator at lar embodiment shown the apparatus at each the central station to selectively ring the subsubstation, although it necessarily includes scribers bells on any particular party-linesuitable reactive means for determining which 9o that is to say, the operator may ring any bell of the different currents shall pass through without ringing the others; and this very deits allotted bell or shall produce an eti'ective 4o sirableandadvantageousfeatureof selectively flow of current through its allotted bell, is calling up any of the subscribers on a line is non-tuned in character and is responsive to accomplished by means of the improved apvibratory currents of certainelectrical char- 95 paratus and in a verysimple and etiicientmanacter, but not to the vibratory currents of ner. For example, in a party-line telephone different character employed for ringing the system embodying the principles of this inother bells along the line. Obviously, therevention each line may be common to four fore, it is possible to operate a party-line havsubscribers stationsfthat is to say, four subing a plurality of bells or other suitable sig- 10o scribers telephone sets may be connected with nal-receiving devices, the same being responeach line in the usual and well-known mansive to selective signals conveyed over the cir- 5o ner, but with the exception that the equipcuit, and it will be understood that suitable ment at each substation includes the improved means are provided, as hereinafter more fully signal-receiving apparatus. described, at the calling or central station for IO5 In the particular embodiment of the invensending the selective current-s over the circuit,

and it will also be understood, of course, that this invention as applied to`telephone systems is equally applicable to the common-battery or magneto systems.

As will be seen, the expression capacity charge has been used to denote currents which have passed through a condenser, the effect being to change the electrical character of the current which would otherwise be furnished directly from the source of current; but other means than reactance may, however, be employed to determine the character of the currents which are impressed on the line.

In the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 is a side elevation of signaling means, the inclosure being shown in section. Fig. 2 is a view on line 2 2 of Fig. 1.. Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic View showing the connections of a signaling device which may be employed in connection with the system. matic view of signaling means. Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a signaling system embodying the principles of this invention.

As thus illustrated, and referring particularly to Fig. 5, there is shown a party-linetelephone circuit comprising the station sets 1, 2, 8, and 4distributed throughout its length and included or adapted for inclusion with the conductors 5 and 6 of the circuit. As herein shown` the invention is applied to the common-battery system; but its application to other systems will be readily apparent, and there is also an independent telephone set 7, the said set being shown in operative association with the party-line circuit 5 6, the ordinary operator-s set, ringing-key, drops, and clearing-out drop being indicated. Vith respect to stations 1 and 2, ordinary polarized bells 8 and 9 are employed, bell 8'being connected between conductor 5 and the earth 10 and bell 9 being connected between conductor 6 and the earth 10 through the agency of `switch-hooks suitably connected to the circuit. The arrangement also includes an inductive reactance consisting, preferably, of the impedance-coils 11 11 in the circuits of the call-bells 8 and 9, and also, preferably, includes condensers 12 12 in the same circuit when the invention is applied to commonbattery systems. The condensers 1212 are so arranged that they will obstruct the passage of direct current-as, for instance, from the common battery at the exchange-but these condensers will not neutralize to any extent the inductive reactances 11 11. The reactances 11 11 are preferably of such high impedance that the currents which will pass therethrough, due to the ordinary telephonegenerators, are not sufiicient to ring the bell. The bell, however, is adapted to be operated when a current with a capacity charge such asv would result when the current from the generator be passed through a condenser is sent over the line, the effect of thereactances 11 11 being overcome by the Fig. 4 is a diagramaction of the condenser, thereby operating the bell. A detail of this bell-circuit diagrammatically is shown in Fig. 3, no condenser being shown, as would be the'case in the ordinary ring-down system. The switchhook is here omitted for the sake of clearness and call-bell 8 is adapted to operate when conductor 5 is suitably energized, while call-bell '9 is adapted to respond to a suitable energi- Zation of conductor 6. In order to operate an additional number of non-interfering signals upon the same line, there are also in this instance two of the improved calling devices 13 13 at stations 3 and 4, the same being shown in detail in Figs. 1 and 2. One of the said calling' devices is preferably connected between conductor 5 and the earth 10, while the remaining calling device is connected between conductor 6 and the earth through the agency, preferably, of switch-hooks.

In this improved signaling device there is preferably an alternating-current calling device consisting of electromagnets 14 14, operatively associated with an armature 15, pivotally secured between the same. The armature is adapted to operate the signal, preferably by means of a hammer 16 and bells 17, and the magnets are susceptible to alternating-current impulses passed therethrough, thereby operating the armature. In order to lock the armature 15-that is, prevent the same from operating when current from a condenser is passed over the conductors 5 and G-it is possible to employ auxiliary magnets 18, also energized from the -same circuit, and to provide an extension 19 upon the armature 15, the said extension being preferably provided at its extremity with an armature 20, which is adapted to be influenced through the energization of the magnets 18. It will be seen that in the present instance the magnets 18 are adapted to more easily iniuence the action of the armature 15, as the same acts thereon through the agency of a longer leverarm, supplied in this instance by the extension 19. It is preferable to include a chokecoil 21 in series with the magnets 18, so as to materially increase the impedance of this circuit, and to include the magnets 14 14 in parallel with the magnets 18 and coil 21, this parallel circuit being included in series with the calling-circuit and preferably a condenser 12. l/Vhen an ordinary alternating current is impressed upon the circuit including calling devices 13, the choke-coil 21 will effectively prevent the requisite energization of magnets 18 18 to operate the extension 19, and the calling' device may be operated through theagency of the magnets 14 14, the impedance of which is not as great as the combined impedance of magnets 18 and coil 21. If a current from a condenser or any current having a capacity effect be impressed upon the calling-device circuit, the capacity eect overcomes in a measure the inductive reactance of IIO the coil 21, and the magnets 18 18 may be sufficiently energized to attract the armature 20, and thereby the extension 19, thus locking the armature 15 in place, the effect of magnets 18 being of greater influence there.- on. due to the preferably longer lever-arm 1S).

ln order to convey ordinary alternating eurrents over the conductors 5 and 6 separately, as well as condenser-currents, it is practicable to employ a generator 22, one of the terminals of which is suitably grounded, the remaining terminal 23 being' adapted for connection with conductors 5 or 6 through the agency of switching means si) .v3 s, employed `for this purpose. Switching means s3 is adapted to connect terminal 23 of the generator to conductor 5, thereby sending an alternating current over the said conductor, and switching means s" is adapted in a like inanner to connect terminal 23 of the generator to conductor 6. Switching means s' may be employed for connecting terminal 23 of the generator to conductor 5 in series with a condenser c, and a capacity current is thus impressed upon the said conductor, the capacity effect neutralizing all or a portion of the induetance in the circuit, as desired. Switching means 2 in like manner includes the generator 22 in series with the conductor o' and a condenser 2, thus similarly energizing the said conductor, and any suitable switching means may be employed for effecting this resul-t, the generator being' also adapted, as shown, to energize other circuits of the eX- change.

In Fig. 1 there is shown au improved callsignal device or signal-receiving apparatus applied to an ordinary ring-down system, the condenser 12 being omitted, as -will be well understood, armature 15 being shown as locked by the magnet 18, thus preventing the operation thereofl through the agency of the magnets 11 11, and the switch-hook is omitted in this instance Vfor the sake of clearness, its inclusion in the circuit being well understood.

The operation of the improved system will now be readily apparent. The call-signal devices at stations 1 and 3 are in this instance in circuit with conductor 5, call-signal devices at the stations 2 and 1 being in circuit with conductor 6. If now switching means s is operated at the exchange, generator 22 is included in series with conductor 5 and the condenser if. A condenser-current is thus impressed upon the calling-circuits connected to the said conductor 5--that is, the calling-circuits at stations 1 and 3. comes the inductive reactance of the chokecoil 11 at station 1 and operates the bell or call-signal device 8. rl`his current is also impressed upon the call-circuit at station 3, and the effect of the said current is to neutralize or partially neutralize the inductive effect of the choke-coil 21, thus suiliciently energizing magnets 18 and locking the armature, there- 'lhis current overf by preventing the operation thereof. In like manner switching means s? is employed when it is desired to operate the call-signal device 9 at the station 2, conductor 6 being in this instance energized and call-signal device 13 at station e being prevented from operating, due to the effect of the magnets 18. Then it is desired to operate the call-signal magnets at stations3andfgswitchingmeansssarcemployed. To call station 3, switching means s is operated to include the generator 22 in circuit with conductor 5, the ordinary generator-current being thus transmitted over the line. This current is in'lpressed upon the calling-circuit at the said station` the greater portion thereof flowing through the magnets 1i 1l and operating' the bell or signal, magnet 18 being' insu t'- ficiently energized to operate its arniature 20, preferably due to the effect of the choke-coil 21. The current in this case is also impressed upon the calling-circuit at station 1; but the -signal 8 is prevented from operating, due to the action of the impedance-coil 11. ln like manner the call-signal device at station 1 may be operated upon employment of the switching means al. ln the illustration shown, in which condensers 12 12 are employed, so that no current from the common battery may leak through the call-signal devices, the capacity in these condensers` is sometimes large enough to require auxiliary induetance to neutralize the same, so that the calling' devices may operate satisfactorily. Ordinarily a separate induetance is placed in the circuit with each one of these condensers, which produces more or less additional expense in the installation of systems of this class. To obviate this dilliculty, it is desirable to provide a single induetance-coil 21, which is adapted to overcome the capacity of the eondensers 12 when the ringing-keys 3 and .v are in action.

As illustrated, the invention is applied particularly to party-line telephones; hut obviously it is not limited to such application nor to any particular number of stations.

It will be seen that the improved signalreceiving al'iparatus is in at least one case-- that is to say, the apparatus of at least one substation---essentially non-tuned in character. In other werds, alternatingcurrent-s and reactive means are employed for selectively operating the different signals; but it will be seen that the reactive means associated with at least one subseribefs bell or other signal is essentially of a non-tuned character.

The use of alternating currents or of vibratingcurrents of ditferent character for selectively operating a plurality of signals through the medium of means including non-tuned reactive means located at one substation, at least, is new. Furthermore, it will be seen that this invention,as previously stated, involves the use of non-tuned reactive signal-receiving apparatus at one subscriber-s station at least and signal-trzmsmitting apparatus at the central station adapted for sending vibratory currents of different character; but the transmitting and receiving apparatus are adapted, by reason of the ability of the one to send currents which will produce different reactionary effects in the same reactive means and the other to develop different reactionary results at the different stations from a given current to conjointly increase and decrease the relative flow of current in the bells, whereby the bells at the different stations may, notwithstanding the absolutely nontuned character of the signal-receiving apparatus of at least one substation, be selectively operated by vibratory currents of different character projected over the line. In other words, the desired result or selective action is obtained by the use of vibratory currents of different reactive character relatively to a given impedance in combination with reactive means in non-tuned signal-receiving apparatus of at least one substation,whereby the relative flow of current in the bells will vary as the current changes and the reaction varies.

That the term non-tuned as applied to the improved signal-receiving apparatus accurately describes such apparatus is evidenced by the fact that none of the well-known principles of resonance, harmonics, &c., and no tuning, either electrical or mechanical, of any sort enters into or in any way characterizes the construction of the signal-receivingapparatus of at least one substation.

It is obvious that other suitable or desired translating devices may be substituted for the bells or signal-giving devices.

As illustrated it will be seen that the improved signaling system involves a plurality of signal-receiving means, the dierent signal-receiving means being' each adapted, employed and designed independently of the operation or any signaling action of the other to perform its function of giving a signal to attract attention, it being possible to at will cause any one of the said signal-receiving means to give a signal to attract attention and without first causing the operation of anotherof saidsignal-receivingmeans. Furthermore and more specifically considered, it will be seen that the presentinvention contemplates a party-line telephone system inl which a telephone set is allotted to each signal-receiving means, and in such case it is evident that the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets are in part coincident with each other and that each talking-circuit is in part coincident with a signaling-circuit.

I/Vith one of my improved non-tuned but reactively selective signal-receiving means of any suitable character or construction it will be seen that should the current change ever so gradually from one character to the other the reactive qualities are adapted to gradually change the supply of current to the said meansthat is to say, should the current change gradually in character the variation in the iiow of current through the signal-receiving means will also be graduallso that the apparatus for furnishing and switching and changing the currents at the central station may be of any suitable character.

As is well known, the laws or principles which underlie electrical tuningand electrical resonance are analogous to those which underlie acoustical tuning and acoustical resonance,

i ing the natural period of a conductor or of anything else so as to render it resonant is called tuning,. and for this reason, as stated, the term non-tuned in the foregoing description and in the following claims is used to designate a conductor or circuit, a mechanical device, or a piece of apparatus, which has no adjustment either mechanical or electrical-with a view to so adjusting its natural period as to render it resonant or responsive only either directly or indirectly to electrical vibrations having an equal or similar period. Also in the following claims I desire to have each claim construed as broadly and liberally as the prior state of the art will permitthat is to say, as broadly and liberally as can be done in view of what the prior art actually and as a matter of fact disclosesand I desire that no limitations whatever be imposed upon said claims except in so far as may be found necessary or proper in view of what is actually disclosed by the prior art, and with this understanding What I claim as my invention isy l. An electric signaling apparatus comprising an electromagnet for operating a signal, normally non-neutralized inductive meansfor preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon neutralization of inductance in the said means, and means for at will causing said neutralization.

2. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including an electromagnet for operating a signal, and1 normally non-neutralized inductive means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon neutralization of inductance in the said means, said system also comprising means for at will causing said neutralization, and for furnishing current for operating said signalreceiving means; and a telephone set allotted IOO IZO

rfsaolo to each signal-receiving means and designated b y the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit t`or each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent otl and distinct from the means employed tor furnishing' the current necessary tor operating' the different signal-receiving means.

3. An electric signaling apparatus comprising' a polarized electromagnet for operating' a signal, normally non-neutralized inductive means 'tor preventing the operation o't` the said electroinag'net upon neutralization ot' inductance in the said means, and means for at will causing said neutralization.

i. A party-line telephone system comprising' a plurality ot' sig'nal-receiving' means, at least one ot' said means including' a polarized electromagnet for operating' a signal, and normally non-neutralized inductive means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon neutralization ot' inductance in the said inductive means, said system also comprising' means for furnishing' current for operating' said signal-receiving means, and for at will causing' said neutralization; and a telephone set allotted to each signal -receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the diti'erent telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking'- circuit being' in part coincident with a sig'naling-circuit; and means for supplying the cnrrent necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means beingindependent ot' and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

5. An electric signaling apparatus comprising an electromagnet for operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for mechanically locking the armature of the aforesaid electromagnet, and controlling its operation, and reactive means associated with the said auxiliary electromagnet and governing the opera-tion thereof.

6. A party-line telephone system comprising al plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including' an electromagnet for operating a signal responsive to alternating' currents, an auxiliary eleetromagl net it'or mechanically locking' the armature of the aforesaid electromag'net, and controlling its operation, and reactive means associated with the said auxiliary electromagnet and governing the operation thereof, said system also comprising means for furnishing current for operating said signal-receiving means; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' 'the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the circuit necessary vt'or operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing' the current necessary for operating the ditl'erent signal-receiving means.

7. An electric signaling' apparatus comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating a signal responsive to alternating cui'- rents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, means for preventing' the operation ot' the said electromagnet upon neutralization ot' inductance in the said auxiliary electromagnet, and means for causing said neutralization.

8. A party-line telephone system comprisingl a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including an electromagnet, and an armature 't'or operating' a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet tor locking the armature in position, means t'or preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon neutralization or' ind uctauce in the said auxiliary electromagnet, said system also comprising means for furnishing' current for operating said signal-receiving' means, and `for causing` said neutralization; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking'- circuit for each telephone set, the tal king-circuits otl the ditferent telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary t'or operating said telephone sets, said means being independent o't' and distinct from the means employed tor furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

9. An electric signaling apparatus comprising' an electromag'net and an armature Vfor operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, an impedance-coil included in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet, said auxiliary electromagnet being adapted to lock the armature upon neutralization ot reactance in the said impedance-coil, and means for causing said neutralization.

l0. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality ot' signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including' an electromagnet, and an armature Vfor operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, an impedance-coil included in cir- IOO IIO

cuit with the said auXiliary electromagnet, said electromagnet being' adapted to lock the armature upon neutralization of reactance in the said impedance-coil, said system also comprising means for furnishing current for operating said signal-receiving' means, and for causing said neutralization; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit;

and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

11. A signaling' system comprising an electric circuit, a plurality of signal-receiving devices connected with the said circuit, a source of alternating' current adapted to energize the said circuit, means for including the said source inthe said circuit to operate one of the signal-receiving devices, and means for inserting capacity in circuit with the said source of alternating current and the said circuit. whereby another of the said signals may be operated.

12. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, a plurality of signal-receiving means connected with the said circuit, a source of alternating current adapted to energize the said circuit, means for including the said sourcein the said circuit to operate one of the signal-receiving means, and means for inserting capacity in circuit wit-h the said source of alternating current and the said circuit, whereby another of the said signal-receiving' means may be operated; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking'- circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing p the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

13. A signaling system comprising a metallic electric circuit, a plurality of signal-receiving' devices connected with one conductor of the said circuit and a return-circuit, a second plurality of signal-receivingdevices connected between the remaining conductor of the circuit and the common return-circuit, a source of alternating current, means for including the said source of alternating current with one of the conductors of the circuit and the common 14. A party-line telephone system comprising a metallic electric circuit, a plurality of signalreceiving means connected with one conductor of the said circuit and a return-circuit, a second plurality of signal-receiving means connected between the remaining conductor of the circuit and the common returncircuit, a source of alternating current, means for including the said source of alternating current with one of the conductors of the circuit and the common return-circuit, whereby one of the said signal-receiving means may be operated, and means for inserting capacity in circuit with the said source of alternating current and the same conductor and the returncircuit for operating a second signal-receiving means connected with the said conductor; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and 'designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the diiferent telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signalingcircuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

15. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, a plurality of polarized signals at different stations, an impedance-winding in circuit with one of the said signals, a source of alternating current adapted for inclusion with the said circuit at another station, and means for inserting capacity in circuit with the said source of alternating current and the said circuit, whereby inductance of the said impedance-winding is neutralized at will to operate the said signal.

16. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, a plurality of vpolarized signal-receiving means at different stations, an impedance-winding in circuit with one of the said signals, a source of alternating' current adapted for inclusion with the said circuit at another station, and means for inserting capacity in circuit with the said source of alternating current and the said circuit,where by inductance of the said impedance-winding is neutralized at will to operate the said signal; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking'- ISO circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot and distinct from the means employed for furnishing' current necessary tor operating' the different signal-receiving means.

LT. A sig'naling' system comprising' a metallic electric circuit, a plurality of signal-receiving devices connected with one conductor ot' the said circuit and a return-circuit` a second plurality ot' signal-receiving devices connected between the remaining' conductor ot' the circuit and the common retinal-circuit, a condenser included in each ot' the circuits including' a signal-receiving' device, a source of alternating' current, means for including' ind uctance in circuit with the said source ot' alternating' current and one of the conductors of the circuit and a common return-circuit, whereby one of the said signal-receiving' devices may be operated, the said inductance serving' tonentralize the capacity in circuit with the said receiving' device, and means for at will inserting' capacity in circuit with the said source ol alternating current and the said conductor and the return-circuit t'or operating' a second sig'- nal-receiving' device included with the said conductor.

18. A party-line telephone system comprising' a metallic electric circuit. a plurality of signal-receiving means connected with one conductor ot' the said circuit and a returncircuit, a second plurality of signal-receiving means connected with the remaining' conductor of the circuit and the common return-circi'lit, a condenser included in each otl the circuits including a signal-receiving means, a source otA alternating current. means for including inductance in circuit with the said source of alternating' current and one otl the conductors of the circuit and a common return-circuit, whereby one ofthe said signal-receiving means may be operated, the said inductance serving' to neutralize the capacity in circuit with the said receiving' means, and means for at will inserting' c; pacity in circuit with the said source otl alternating' current and the said cond uctor and the return-circuit for operating' a second signal-receiving means included with the said conductor; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and desig'natei'l by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit Vfor each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the diti'erent telephone sets being' in part coincident with the other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary tor operating said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot' and distinct from the means employed t'or furnishing' the current necessary for operating' the diti'erent signal-receiving means.

19. An electric sig'nalingapparatus comprising' an electromag'net for operating' a signal, independently acting' non tuned reactive means for preventing' the operation ot' the said electromagnet upon energ'ization ot' the said means,saidmeansincluding'animpedance-coil, and means lfor causing' said energization.

Q0. A party-line telephone system comprising' a plurality ot' signal-receiving' means, at least one ot' said means including' an electromagnet for operating' a sig'nal, independentlyactingnon-tuned reactive means for preventing' the operation ot' the said electromag'net upon energization ot' the said electromagnet upon energ'ization ot' the said means, said means including' an impedance-coil, said system also comprising' mains for causing' said energ'ization; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit Vforeach telephone set, the talliing-circuits otl the dili'erent telephone sets be.- ing' in part coincident with cach other, and each talking-circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for snpplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot' and distinct from the means employed for fu rn ish ing' the current necessary 'for operating' the different signal-receiving' means.

2l. An electric signaling'apparatus comprising' a polarized clectromagnet for operating' a signal, independently-acting non-tuned reactive means for preventing' the operation of the said electromagnet upon energ'ization of the said means, said means including' an impedance-coil, and means for causing' said energization.

Q2. A party-line telephone system comprising' a plurality of signal-receiving' means, at least one of said means including a polarized electromag'net for operating' a signal, independently-acting non-tuned reactive means for preventing' the operation ot' the said electromagnet upon energization ot' the said reactive means, said reactive means including' an impedance-coil, said system also comprising' means for causing` said energ'iZation', and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking'- circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being irulependent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing' the current necessary t'or operating the dit'- t'erent signal-ri'lceiving' means.

An electric signaling' apparatus comprising` an electromagnet lor operating' a signal responsive to alternating currents, an armature for said electromag'net, an auxiliary electromag'net inductively associated with said a1'- ICO IOS

mature for controlling the operation of the aforesaid electromagnet, and means associated with the said auxiliary electromagnet for governing the operation thereof.

24. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including an electromagnet for operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an armature for said electromagnet. an auxiliary electromagnet inductively associated with said armature for controllingthe operation of the aforesaid electromagnet, and means associated with the said auxiliary electromagnet for governing the operation thereof, said system also comprisi ing means for furnishing current for operating said signal-receiving means; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits 'of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being in part coincident With a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating' the different signal-receiving means.

25. An electric signaling apparatus comprising' an electromagnet and an armature for operating' a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon energization of the said auxiliary electromagnet, together with means for energizing the auxiliary magnet said magnets being connected in parallel.

26. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including an electromagnet and an armature for operating a signal responsive to alternating curi ents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon energization of the said auxiliary electromagnet, said system also comprising means for energizing' the auxiliary magnet; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident With each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

27. An electric signaling apparatus comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position` and reactance in circuit With the said auxiliary electromagnet for effecting the operation of the said auxiliary electromagnet to lock the armature `upon energization of the circuit including the lsaid auxiliary electromagnet, together Wlth means for energizing the auxiliary magnet.

28. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including an electromagnet and an armature for operating-a signal responsive to alternating currents, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and reactance in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet for effecting the operation of the said auxiliary electromagnet to lock the armature upon energization of the circuit including the said auxiliary electromagnet, said system also comprising means for energizing the auxiliary magnet; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the diferent telephone sets being in part coincident With a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

29. An electric signaling apparatus comprising means for operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, an independentlyacting permanently-closed non-tuned reactive shunt about said means, for preventing the operation of said means to actuate the signal upon operative energization of said shuntcircuit, together with means for energizing the shunt.

80. A party-line telephone system'comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including means for operating a signal responsive to alternating currents, anY independently-acting permanentlyclosed non-tuned reactive shunt about said means, for preventing the ope-ration of said means to actuate the signal upon operative en ergization of said shunt-circuit, said system also comprising means for energizing the shunt; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkingvcircuit -for each telephone set, the talliing-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coinci: dent With a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means em- IIO ployed for furnishing` the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

31. An electric signaling apparatus comprising' means for operating a signal responsive to alternatingcurrents, an independentlyacting permanently closed reactive shunt about said means, t'or preventing the operation ot' said means to actnate the signal upon operative energization of said shunt-circuit, together with means for energizing the shunt.

A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one ot' said means including' means for operating a signal responsive to alternating' currents, and an independently-acting' permanently-closed reactive shunt about said means, for preventing the operation of said means to actuate the signal upon operative energization of said shunt-circuit, said system also comprising' means for energizing the shunt; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated b v the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking set being' in part coincident with a signalingcircuit; and means Yfor supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for Afurnishing the current necessary for operating the different signaling-receiving means.

33. An electric signaling' apparatus comprising apolarized electromagnet for operating a signal responsive to alternating'currents, an independently-acting permanently-closed reactive shunt associated with the circuit of the said electromagnet, for preventing the operation of the electromagnet to actuate the signal upon operative energization of said shunt-circuit, together with means for energizing the shunt.

34. A party-line telephone system comprisingl a plurality ot' signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including a polarized electromagnet For operating a signal responsive to alternating'currents, an independentlyacting permanently-closed reactive shunt associated with t'ne circuit of the said electromagnet, for preventing the operation of the electromagnet to actuate the signal upon operative energizatiou of said shunt-circuit, said system also comprising means for energizing the shunt; anda telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkingcircuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent oitl and distinct from the means employed for `furnishing' the current necessary for operating the diiierent signal-receiving means.

A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means `for impressing alternating' currents ot' different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit and responsive to alternating currents of a certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving device also associated with the same circuit and responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signalreceiving device, Yfor preventing actuation thereof by alternating currents ot' an electrical character, which are adapted to operate the first-aforesaid device, the different signalreceiving' means being' each adapted and designed independently of any signaling' action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention'.

36. A party-line telephone system comprising' an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating' currents of ditferent electrical character independently upon said circuit, signalreceiving means connected with said circuit and responsive to alternating' currents ot' a certain electrical character, a second signalreceiving means also associated with-the same circuit and responsive to alternating cui'- rents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving means, for preventing actuation thereofl by alternating currents of an electrical character adapted to operate the first-aforesaid means; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and desig'nated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit Vfor each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operatingl said telephone sets, said means being independent ot' and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving' means.

37. A signaling' system comprising' an electric circuit, a plurality ot signal-receiving devices connected with the said circuit, means for impressing alternating currents upon the said circuit, means for including the firstaforesaid means in the said circuit to operate one of the signal-receiving devices, and means Jfor including' non-tuned reactance in circuit with the tirst-aforesaid means and the said circuit, whereby another of the said signals may be operated.

38. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit a plurality of signal-receiving means connected with said circuit, means for impressing alternating currents IOO upon the said circuit, devices for including' the last-mentioned means in the said circuit to operate one of the Signal-receiving means, and means` for incl uding' non-tuned reactance in circuit with the last-mentioned means and the said circuit, whereby another of the said signals may be operated; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and desig'nated by thevsignal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the diflerent telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the'different signal-receiving means.

39. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for selectively impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a sig'nal-receiving device connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactive means in circuit with said signalreceiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second sig'nal-receiving device responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving device for preventing actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character, which are adapted to operate the iirstaforesaid device.

40. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit means for selectively impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a sig'nal-receiving means connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving means, whereby said signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means responsive to alternating'currents of a different electrical character, and nontuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving means for preventing actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character, adapted to operate the first-aforesaid means; and a telephone set al-y lotted to each signal-receiving means and designated bythe signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each saidtalking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiif'ing means.

4:1. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating' currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving' device connected with said circuit, nontuned reactance in series with said signal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving device responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving device for preventing actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character which are adapted to operate the first-aforesaid device.

42. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents of diEerent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactance in series with vsaid signal-receiving means, whereby said signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means responsive to alternating' currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving means for preventing actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character adapted to operate the first-aforesaid device; and a te-lephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits o f the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

43. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for selectively impressing alternating currents of different electrical character upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device, connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactive means associated with said signal-receiving' device whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating' currents of certain electrical character, a second signalreceiving device comprising an electroinagnet for operating the signal, and a reactive circuit for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon sufiicient energization of said reactive circuit, whereby the said lastmentioned signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, together with means for operatively energizing the reactive circuit.

IOO

IIO

ISO

JA. A party-line telephone system comprising' an electric circuit, means tor selectively impressing altoi'nating' currents ot' dil'l'erent electrical character upon said circuit, a signalreceiviug means connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactive means associated with said signal-receiving' means, whereby said signalreceiving' means is responsive to alternating' currents ot certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means comprising' an electromag'net for operating' a signal, and a reactive circuit tor preventing' the operation ot the sa l electromag'net upon sutlicient energ'ization ot' said reactive circuit, whereby the said last-mentioned sig'nal-recei ving' means is responsive to alternating' currents ot' a dit'- t`erent electrical character, together with means Vt'or operatively energizing' the reactive circuit; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated b v the signal given thereby, together with a talking'- circuit for each telephone set. the talkingcircuits of the ditlerent telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means Yt'or suppl \g'ing' 'the current necessary tor operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot' and distinct vtrom the means employed tor furnishing' the current necessary for operating' the ditiercnt signal-receiving' means.

5. A signaling' system comprising' an electric circuit, means tor impressing' alternating currents ot' diti'erent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit, nontuned reactance in series with said signal-receiving' device, whereby said signal-receiving' de\ice is responsive to alternating currents o't certain electrical character, a second sig'- nal-receiving' device comprising an electromag'net for operating' the signal, and nontuned reactive means for preventing' the operation ot' the said electromag'net upon energization ot' said reactive means, whereby the said second signal-receiving' device is responsive to alternating' currents o'tl a different electrical character.

a6. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing' alternating currents ot' diti'erent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactance in series with said signal-receiving' device, whereby said signalreceivingmeans is responsive to alternating' currents ot' certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving' means comprising' an electromag'net toroperating' a sig'nal, and nontuned reactive means Vtor preventing the operation ot' the said electromag'net upon energization ot said reactive means, whereby the said second signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating' currents of a ditlerent electrical character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit'tor each telephone set, the tall(- ing-circuits ot' the diti'erent telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means tor supplying' the current necessary `t'or operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot' and distinct from the means employed Vfor Jfurnishing' the current necessary Vt'or operating' the ditferent signal-receiving means.

4T. A signaling' system comprising' an electric circuit, means for impressing' alternating' currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a sig'nal-receiving` device connected with said circuit, nontuned reactive means in circuit with said sig'- nal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving' device is responsive to alternating' currents otl certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving' device comprising' a polarized electromag'net Vfor operating' the signal and reactive means Ytor preventing the operation otl the said electromag'net upon energ'ization ot' said reactive means, whereby the said second signal-receiving' device is responsive to alternating currents otl a diti'erent electrical character.

4S. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating' currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving' means connected with said circuit, non-tuned reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving' device, whereby said signal-receiving' means is responsive to alternatingcurrents ot' certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving' device comprising a polarized electromag'net for operating' a signal, and reactive means for preventing' the operation ot the said electromag'net upon energ'ixation ot' said reactive means, whereby the said second signal-receiving' means is responsive to alternating' currents of a ditierent electrical character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the diti'crent telephone sets` being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being' in part coincident with a sig'naling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independentot and distinct from the means employed tor 'furnishing the current necessary t'or operating' the dit'- ferent signal-receiving' means.

i9. A signaling' system comprising' an electric circuit, means t'or impressing' alternating' currents o't' ditierent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving' IOO IIO

devicev connected with said circuit, reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents ot' certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving device comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating the signal, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon energization of the said auxiliary electromagnet, whereby the said last-inentioned signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of a diiercnt electrical character.

50. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating` currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected with said circuit, reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving means, whereby said signalreceiving means isv responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving means comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating a signal, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet upon energization of the said auxiliary electromagnet, whereby the said lastmentioned signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating currents ot' a diiierent electrical charactergand a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means. Y

5l. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit, reactance in series with said signal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving device comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating the signal, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the operation oi' the said electromagnet upon energiZ-ation of the said auxiliary electromagnet, whereby the said last-mentioned signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of a ditl'erent electrical character.

52. A party-line telephone system comprisi ing an electric circuit, means for impressing rents ot' certain electrical character, and a second signal -receiving means comprising an electromagnet and an armature for operating a signal, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and means for preventing the opei'ation of the said electromagnet upon energization of the said auxiliary electromagnet whereby the said lastmentioned signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkingcircuit for each telephone set, the talking circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary or operating said telephone set, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

53. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents ot' dierent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit, reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device lis responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving device comprising an electromagnet and an armature, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and an impedance-coil included in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet for effecting `the operation of said auxiliary electromagnet to lock the armature upon neutralization of reactance in the said impedance-coil, whereby the said last-mentioned signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of a di'erent electrical character.

54C. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents of diiferent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected With said circuit, reactive means in circuit with said signal-receiving means, whereby said signalreceiving means is responsive to alternating currents of certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means comprising an electromagnet and an armature, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and an impedance-coil included in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet IIO and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit I for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the ditl'erent telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said tall:- ing-circuit being' in part coincident with a sig'- naling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for `furnishing the current necessary for operating' the different signal-receiving means.

A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents ot' different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit, reactance in series with said signal-receiving device, whereby said signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents ot' certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving' device comprising an electromagnet and an armature, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and an impedance-coil included in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet for effecting the operation of the said auxiliary electromagnet to loclr the armature upon neutralization of reactanee in the said impedance-coil, whereby the said last-mentioned signal-receiving device is responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character.

56. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means Jor in'ipressing alternating currents ot' different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving' means connected with said circuit, reactance in series with said signalreceiving means, whereby said signal-receiving' means is responsive to alternating' currents of certain electrical character, and a second signal-receiving means comprising' an electromagnet and an armature, an auxiliary electromagnet for locking the armature in position, and an impedance-coil included in circuit with the said auxiliary electromagnet Jfor etl'ecting the operation of the said auxiliary electromagnet to lock the armature upon neutralization ot' reactance in the said impedance-coil, whereby the said last-mentioned signal-receiving means is responsive to alternating currents o't' a dilferent electrical character', and a telephone set allotted to each sig'- nal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking'- circuit 'for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot` the ditl'erent telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being' in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

5T. An electric signaling apparatus comprising a signal responsive to alternating currents` a polarized electromagnet for operatingsaid signal` and anon-tuned indei'iendentlyacting reactive shunt-circuit associated with the electric circuit of the said clectromagnet, for preventing the operation of said electromagnet to actuate the signal.

58. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means including a signal responsive to alternating cm'rents, a polarized electromagnet for operating said signal, and a non-tuned independently-acting reactive shunt-circuit associated with the electric circuit ot' the said electromagnet, for preventing the operation of the said electromagnet to actuate the signal upon su tticient energization of said shunt-circuit by alternatingcurrent, said system also comprising means for furnishing the current for operating said signal-receiving means; and a telephone set allotted -to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkingcircuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits ot' the ditferent telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supi'ilying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent ot' and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

59. An electric signaling apparatus comprising a signal responsive to alternating current, a polarized electromagnet for operating said signal, a reactive shunt-circuit associated with the electric circuit of the said electromagnet, Jfor preventing the operation of said electromagnet to actuate the signal upon sutlicient energization ot said shunt-circuit by alternating current, and means for supplying said current,

GO. A party-line telephone system comprising a plurality of signal-receiving means, at least one of said means includingl a signal responsive to alternating current, a polarized electromagnct for operating said signal, a reactive shunt-circuit associated with the circuit of the said electromagnet, for preventing the operation of said electromagnet to actuate the signal upon suliicient energization of said shunt-circuit by alternating current, said system also comprising means for supplying said current; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkinglOO IOS

TIO

IIS

circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

6l. Asignaling system comprising an electric circuit, source of current and means for supplying' and impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit and responsive to alternating current of a certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving device responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving device, for preventing the actuation thereof by alternating,l currents of an electrical character which are adapted to operate the first-aforesaid device, the different signalreceiving means beingI each adapted and designed independently of any signaling' action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

62. A party-line telephone system comprisingan electric circuit, means for supplying and impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected with said circuit and responsive to alternating current of a cert-ain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, and non-tuned reactive means associated with the second signal-receiving means, for preventing the actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character which are adapted to operate the first-aforesaid signal-receiving means; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the dii'erent telephone sets being' in part coincident'with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving' means.

63. A signaling system comprising an electric circuit, source of current means for impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving device connected with said circuit and responsive to alternating' current of a certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving device responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, said last-mention ed signal-receiving device including a shunt-circuit for precluding the actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character which are adapted to operate the first-aforesaid device.

64. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, means for impressing alternating currents of diii'erent electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving means connected with said circuit and responsive'to alternating current of a certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving means responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, said last-mentioned signal-receiving means including a shunt-circuit for precluding the actuation thereof by alternating currents of an electrical character adapted to operate the first-aforesaid signal-receiving means; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signalingcircuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

65. A signaling system comprising an electrical circuit, switching mechanism for selectively impressing alternating currents of different electrical character' independently upon said circuit, a signal-giving device connected with said circuit, an impedance device in circuit With said signal-giving device, whereby the-signal-receiving apparatus thus provided is responsive to alternating currents of a' certain electrical character, a second signal-receiving apparatus responsive to alternating currents of a different electrical character, said last-mentioned signal-receiving apparatus including an impedance device also associated with the same circuit, for preventing the actuation thereof by alternating current of a character adapted to operate the firstaforesaid device, the signal-receiving apparatus thus provided being non-tuned in character, the different signal-receiving means being IIO each adapted and designed independentlyof any signaling' action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

66. A party-line telephone system comprising an electric circuit, switching mechanism for selectively impressing alternating currents of different electrical character independently upon said circuit, a signal-giving means connected with said circuit, an impedance device in circuit with said signal-giving means, whereby the signal-receiving apparatus thus provided is responsive to alternating' l non-tuned in character; anda telephone set l Y i means. designated by the sig'nal g'iven thereby, to-

allotted to each signal-receiving' means and g'ether with a talking-circuit for cach telephone set. the talking-circuits of the ditteri ent telephone sets being' in pai't coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit t being' in pai't coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the curi'ent i necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said m ians being' independent of and distinct Yfrom the means employed for Vfurnishing' the alternating' currents of ditferent electrical1 character indepei'idently upon said circuit, a signal-receiving' device connected with said circuit, an impedance device associated with said sig'nal-rcceiving' device, whei'eby said sig'- nal-reeeiving' device is unresponsive to alternating' currents of a certain electrical character, a second sig'i'ial-receiving' device unresponsive to alternating' currents of a ditierent electrical character and including' an impedance device also associated with the same circuit, for permitting' an actuation of the said signal-receiving' device by said first-mentioned altci'nating' currents, the first-mentioned sig'- nal-i'eceiving' apparatus thus provided being' non-tiined in character, the different signalreceiving' means being' each adapted and designed independently of any signaling' action of the other to pei'form its intended function ot' giving' a signal to attract attention.

e8. A party-line telephone system conipi'isimpressing' alternating' currents of different ing' an electric cii'cuit, means for selectively electrical cliai'actei' independently upon said l' circuit, a signal-receiving' means connected with said circuit, an impedance device associated with said signal-receiving' means, whereby said signal-receiving' means is uni'esponsive to alternating' currents of a certain electi'ical character, a second sig'nal i'eceiving' meansunresponsive to altei'iiatiiig' currents of a different clecti'ical cliai'acter and including' an impedance device, also associated with the same circuit, for permitting' ari-actuation of the said second signal-receiving' means by said certain altei'iiatiiig' currents, the signal-receiving' apparatusl thus provided being' nontuned in character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated bythe sig'nal g'iven thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincident wit-li each otliei', and each said talking-circuit being' in pai't coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent ot' and distinct fi'oin the means employed for furnishing' the euri'ent necessary for operating' the different signal-receiving' 69. A signaling' system in which alternating' currents of different electrical cliai'actei' ai'e projected onto the line, one at a time, and in which the line is normally free from sig'- naling'current, the system including' a sig'nalreceiving' apparatus alone responsive to an altei'nating' current of a predetei'iiiined charactei', and another signal-receiving' apparatus alone responsive to alternating' current of a different character, the signal-receiving' apparatus being ot' a non-tuned character, in one case, at least, the different signal-receiving' means being' each adapted and designed independently of any signaling' action of the other to perform its intended function of g'iving' a sig'iial to attract attention.

70. A party-line telephone system in which alternating' currents of different electrical character ai'e projected onto the line, one at a time, and in which the line is normally free fi'oin signaling-current, the system including' a signal-receiving' means alone responsive to an alternating' current of a predetermined character, and another signal-receiving' means alone responsive to alternating' current ot' a ditferent character, the sig'nal-receivingl means being' of a non-tuned character in one case at least; and a telephone set allotted to each sig'- nal-receiving' means-and designated by the sig'- nal given thereby, together with a talking'- circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the ditt'erent telephone sets being' in pai't coincident with each other, and aeh said talking-circuit being' in pai't coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means `for supplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinctfrom the means employed for furnishing' the current necessary for opei'atiiig' the different signal-receiving' means.

T1. Thecombination o'fa plurality ofsig'nalreceiving' devices, each included ina signal-receiving' apparatus responsive to alternating' ciii'i'ent of predetermined character, a line conductor to which all of said devices ai'e connected, and means for iinl'iressing' alternatii'ig' currents, each independent of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the said line, the signal-receiving' apparatus being' of a non-tuned character in each case, the ditlerentsignal-receiving' means being' each adapted and designed independently of any sig'naling' IOO TIO

action of the other to perform its intended function of giving asignal to attract attention.

72. The combination of a plurality of signalreceiving devices, each included in a signal-receiving means alone responsive to alternating current of predetermined character, a line conductor to which all of said devices are connected, and means for impressing alternating currents, each independently of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the said line, the signal-receiving' means being' of a non-tuned character in each case; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from themeans employed for furnishing the current necessary foroperating the different signal-receiving means.

73. A signaling system in which alternating currents of different electrical character are projected onto the line, one at a time, and in which the line is normally free from signaling-current, the system including a signalreceiving apparatus responsive to alternating current of a predetermined character, and another signal-receiving apparatus responsive to alternating current of a different character, each sig'nal-receivin g apparatus including suitable reactive means, and the signal-receiving apparatus being' non-tuned in character in each case.

7 4. A party-line telephone system in Which alternating currents of different electrical character are projected onto the line, one at a time, and in which the line is normally free Yfrom signaling-current, the system including a signal-receiving means responsive to alternating' current of a predetermined character,.

and another signal-receiving means responsive to alternating current of a different character, each signal-receivin g means including suitable reactive means, and the signal-receiving means being non-tuned in character in cach case; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing' the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

75. The combination of a plurality of signalreceiving devices, each included in a signalreceiving apparatus responsive to alternating current of predetermined character, a line conductor to which all'of said devices are connected, and means for impressing alternating currents each independent of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the line, at"

least one signal-receiving apparatuscomprising reactive means and a signal connected in series, and the signal-receiving apparatus being non-tuned in at least one case.

76. The combination of a plurality of signalreceiving devices each included in a signalreceiving means responsive to alternating current of predetermined character, a line conductor to which all of said devices -are connected, and means for impressing alternating currents, each independently of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the line, at least one signal-receiving means comprising reactive means and a signal connected in series, and the signal-receiving means being nontuned in at least one case; and a telphone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

77. The combination of a plurality of signalreceiving devices, each included in a signalreceiving apparatus alone responsive to iiuctuating current of a predetermined character, a line conductor to which all of said devices are connected, and means for impressing fluctuating currents each independent of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the line, the signal-receiving apparatus being nontuned in character in each case, and also reactively selective in character With respect to the different currents, the dierent signal-receiving' means being each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

7 8. The combination of a plurality of signalreceiving devices, each included in a signalreceiving means alone responsive to fluctuating current of a predetermined character, a line conductor to Which all of said devices are connected, and means for impressing fluctuating currents, each independently of the other, and of a predetermined character, upon the line, the signal-receiving means being nontuned in character in each case, and also reactively selective in character With respect to the different currents; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, to-

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gether with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in part coincidentwith each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying' the current necessary' for operating said ltelephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

79. The combination of an electric circuit, a plurality of substations connected in parallel in said circuit, each substation being equipped with non-tuned signal-receiving apparatus adapted alone to respond to alternating current of a predetermined character, and meansr for projecting alternating currents of different character upon said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating' the signals at said stations, the different signal-receiving means being' each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of givinga signal to attract attention.

80. The combination of an electric circuit, a plurality of substations connected in parallel in said circuit, each substation being' equipped with non-tuned signal-receiving means adapted alone to respond to alternatingl current of a predetermined character, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character upon said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating' the signals at said stations; and a telephone set allotted to each sig'- nal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby. together with a talkingcircuit for each telephone set, the talkingcircuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving' means. l

Sl. The combination of an electric circuit, a plurality of substations connected in parallel in said circuit, each substation being equipped with non-tuned signal-receiving apparatus adapted alone to respond to alternating currents of a certain character, the apparatus at each station including a signal'and suit-able reactive means, the reactive means at each station being adapted to prevent all except the right current from causing the operation of its associated signal, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character onto said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating said signals, the different signal-receiving means being each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

82. rl`he combination of an electric circuit, a plurality of substations connected in parallel in said circuit, each substation being -equipped with non-tuned signal-receiving means adapted alone to respond to alternating currents of a certain character, the apparatus at each station including a signal and suitable reactive means, the reactive means at each station being' adapted to prevent all except the right current from causing the operation of its associated signal, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character onto said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating said signals; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving' means and designated bythe signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talkingcircuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being' independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

83. rlhe combination of an electric circuit, plurality of parallel branches in said circuit, a signal associated with each branch, reactive means in each branch, the reactive means in each case being adapted to prevent an effective passage through its allotted signal of all currents except those intended and adapted to cause the operation of such signal, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character onto said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating said signals, the signal-receiving apparatus thus associated with at least one branch being non-tuned in character, the different signal-receiving means being each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

84. The combination of an electric circuit, a plurality of parallel branches in said circuit, a signal associated with each branch, reactive means in each branch, the reactive means in each case being' adapted to preventan effective passage through its allotted sig'nal of all currents except those intended and adapted to cause the operation of such signal, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character onto said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating said signals, the

Asignal-receiving means thus associated with at least one branch being non-tuned in character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talkingcircuit foreach telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being' in IOC) IIO

part coincidentwith each other, and each saidV talking-circuit being inpart coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating' said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

85. The combination of a plurality of parallel branch circuits including a line-Wire which is common to all of said circuits, reactive means in each circuit, an electric bell allotted to each circuit, the reactive means in each case being adapted to prevent an effective passage through its allotted signal of all currents except those intended and adapted for operating its allotted bell, and means for projecting alternating currents of dierent character onto said line for the purpose of selectively ringing said bells, the signal-receiving apparatus thus associated with each branch being' non-tuned in character, the different signal-receiving means being each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

86. The combination of a plurality of parallel branch circuits including a line-Wire which is common to all of said circuits, reactive means in each circuit, an electric bell allotted to each circuit, the reactive means in each case being adapted to prevent an effective passage through its allotted bell of all currents'e-Xcept those intended and adapted for' operating its allotted bell, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character onto said line for the purpose of selectively ringing said' bells, the signal-receiving means thus associated With each branch being non-tuned in character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, together with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident with each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident/With a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets, said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the different signal-receiving means.

87. The combination of a plurality of parallel circuits including a line- Nire common to all of said circuits, a signaling device allotted to each circuit, a reactive device in each circuit adapted in each case to preclude an effective passage through its allotted signaling device ofall currents except those intended and adapted to cause the operation of such signaling device, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character upon said line-Wire for the purpose of selecti ively operating the signals, the signal-receiving apparatus thus provided for each circuit' being non-tuned in character, the different signal-receiving' means being each adapted and designed independently of any signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

88. The combination of a plurality of Vparallel circuits including a line-.Wire common to all of said circuits, a signaling device allotted to each circuit, a reactive device in each circuit adapted in each case to preclude an effective passage through its allotted signaling device of all currents except those intended and adapted to cause the operation of such "signaling device, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character upon said line-Wire for the purpose of selectively operating the signals, the signal-receiving means thus provided for each circuit being non-tuned in character; and a telephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and designated by the signal given thereby, tegether with a talking-circuit for each telephone set, the talking-circuits of the different telephone sets being in part coincident With each other, and each said talking-circuit being in part coincident with a signaling-circuit; and means for supplying the current necessary for operating said telephone sets. said means being independent of and distinct from the means employed for furnishing the current necessary for operating the diiferent' signal-receiving means.

89. The combination of an electric circuit, a non tuned signal receiving apparatus connected with said circuit and responsive alone to all alternating currents above a predetermined point of variation, a second signal-receiving apparatus connected with said circuit and responsive alone to all alternating currents below a predetermined point of Variation, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character upon `said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating the signals included in said apparatus, the

different signal-receiving means being each adapted and designed independently of Vany signaling action of the other to perform its intended function of giving a signal to attract attention.

90. The combination of an electric circuit, a non-tuned signal-receiving means connected With said circuit and responsive alone to all alternating currents above a predetermined point of variation, a second signal-receiving means connected With said circuit and responsive alone to all alternating currents below a predetermined point of variation, and means for projecting alternating currents of different character upon said circuit for the purpose of selectively operating the signals included in said receiving means; and atelephone set allotted to each signal-receiving means and' des- IOO 

